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The house at the edge of the world ch.4

Summary: Y/N is the owner of an Airbnb at the edge of the world, a place in which Wanda would either heal or become what everyone is afraid of.

Pairings: Wanda Maximoff/SW! x Female!Reader

Warnings: Minors DNI! +18, angst, drama, slow burn, friends to lovers, pregnancy, romance, fluff, mentions of depression and self harm, healing, R owns an Airbnb that welcomes many known characters from Marvel, R has powers, Wanda needs healing, and so does R. More warnings as the story progress.

Author's Note: The story follows up the events of Wandavision right before the twins birth. Since I didn't like the fact Natasha died in Endgame, she is alive as well as Tony everything else just happens the same way it does in the movies. We will see some Eternals and mentions of all the new members of the cinematic MCU.

English is no my mother tongue so I do apologize for any grammar, spelling or funny mistake.

Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 5 - Chapter 6 - Chapter 7 Chapter 8 - Chapter 9 - Chapter 10 - Chapter 11 - Chapter 12 - Chapter 13 - Chapter 14 - Epilogue

Chapter 4

Healing

Something had changed in her.

The night she came after her visit to the village, Wanda knew there was something different though she could not pinpoint exactly what it was. It wasn’t until she woke up sweaty, breathing hard with tears in her eyes that she discovered what it was.

She dreamt of all the things she did.

For the very first time she dreamt of Westview and the people she had dragged with herself into a different world. She could hear their thoughts, sense their fear, and experience their fear; whatever dreams she harboured with Vision and her life with him had disappeared in a shattering collage of images replaced by the cold, terrifying reality.

That night she could hear their voices, see their faces…hear their thoughts.

It was Lagos all over again.

She was a monster. A creature that didn't know how to control her powers and dragged everyone after her. Whether they wanted it or not. Her suffering had become theirs as well, and Wanda realized for the very first time what her powers had done, what her lack of control had provoked.

For three days, she spent her days with thoughts of guilt dancing around her head. It was a mixture of sensations and she was getting tired, so very tired of everything she kept feeling. It was really hard for her to try and get a control of all the overwhelming emotions trying to drown her.

It was even worse when the cold grasp of the Darkhold sneaked inside her thoughts, and she found herself projecting the image of the Scarlet Witch she had awoken back in Westview. It was a win-win situation, she could still mourn and be lost inside the house, while her projection continued working on her goal.

To build the reality in which she was happy.

But even this was not enough.

Wanda was really tired; her body was no longer answering as it should and the lack of sleep and food was finally getting to her. The Darkhold was no longer the beacon of hope she thought it would be, and the projection of herself could no longer sustain herself for more than a couple of minutes.

You can't give up, Vision and your child are waiting for you. The voice whispered, and Wanda felt a chill down her back when her reflection shot her a withering glance.

Let me out, let me out again, you and I are one… and with the Darkhold we will be invincible.

On the fourth morning she could not sustain herself any longer.

For three days she had observed you from afar, always looking for a way to come to you and follow your advice to join you in the training sessions. But Wanda was afraid. She was so afraid of getting closer to you or leaving herself open to anyone she was so unsure of even how to start a conversation after having ignored you for three days straight.

Wanda clenched her eyes shut when she opened them again it was to see her reflection blinking back at her. It was so easy to give in desperation, to hear herself wanting nothing more than her heart's desire while running away from the opportunities presenting themselves at her doorstep.

Splashing some water on her face, Wanda left the bathroom to go to the kitchen. As was her habit, she made her way to the window finding you following your early routine without a care in the world; Wanda had seen the smirk on your lips and the easiness in which you fell into your routine.

Sometimes, she even thought you were showing off. But it probably was her imagination.

If she was to be honest with herself, and Wanda tried to not have these moments too often, she hadn’t stopped thinking about the day she spent with you in the village. For Wanda was difficult to forget how you had included her in your plans, it was as if you really planned everything in such a way that everything was just perfect. The visit to the plaza, the sight of the ocean and the harbour, the visit to your friends and the meeting with the children; even the streets she got to see just before the both of you reached the car.

Everything had been so…normal.

She had been at peace with herself and the experience, and whenever you reached out to her it was…different. Something inside Wanda stirred, and she had to wonder why. What was about your smile and those dimples that form on your face, or your easy-going nature along with how flirty and extrovert you were at times that made her heart skip a beat, and her mind go into overdrive. It was either be completely irritated by your silly antics or be completely hooked by them.

A part of Wanda reasoned it was not your company but the lack of influence from the Darkhold what made her drawn to you, another part of her reminded her that the voices hadn't been that strong and became non-existent every time you made physical contact with her. That day Wanda had felt herself again, no magic, no danger nothing, it was only her with a bunch of strangers sharing a nice time.

It had been so nice and Wanda wanted to go to you and perhaps changed things. Perhaps letting you know that she…that she had found something, that she wasn’t sure what it was but that a part of her didn’t want to let go while a huge part of her was afraid. Terrified.

She had been so unsure of the whole situation, that Wanda had convinced herself you were being polite, that you didn't really mean your words or actions. You were doing what you were doing out of your friendship with Natasha and customer service. It was duty more than willingness, and the mere thought made Wanda bitter. Miserable.

And that very morning was not the exception.

Wanda saw your from afar, twitching to get over there and talk to you but very firm in her belief she would be a bother to you. The young woman bit her lower lip, her heat thumping hard as a soft, entrancing voice whispered inside her head telling her perhaps the best way to start a conversation was a cup of coffee. She glanced back at the coffee maker, just as another voice colder and traitorous whispered that she was not welcome, only Vision and her child should matter.

A sudden scream and a curse broke her thoughts, Wanda opened her eyes turning around to see as you fell on the ground holding your right leg. It took her a moment but her heart almost gave up at the sight of blood coming from your feet. Without really thinking on her own reaction, Wanda ran towards the back door. To you.

That was all it took to make the decision for her.

"Fuck!" The cursed leaving your lips felt liberating.

You fell on your ass holding back your right leg, tears forming in your eyes while a sharp pain travel from the sole of your foot all the way up to your chest and brain. It was electrifying, making your trembled all over while the power inside you stirred at the intensity of your emotions.

The rock that had create such a pain was filled with your blood, mocking you from the spot it laid in, the crimson adorning the pointy form. How did you not notice that before?

“Y/N!” Your name sounded strange for a moment, you were trying to get control of your own power, when a tender hand placed itself on your shoulder.

“Are you alright?” The moment you opened your eyes you found Wanda kneeling beside you, there was a flash of concern in her eyes. Then her eyes went wide open at the amount of blood she was seeing on your foot.

Another wave of pain came right in, you clenched your eyes shut feeling a comforting hand on your shoulder.

"If by alright you mean bleeding to death, then yes, I'm alright." You groaned, opening an eye to peek at Wanda whom even in her worry state, was rolling her eyes at your comment.

"You're not bleeding to death," she replied dryly, "and it was a rhetorical question."

You chuckled, nodding, taking a deep breath, you opened your eyes and found yourself looking into green ones. There was sweat on your face, and you really needed something to calm down the pain, yet you couldn’t help but admire the woman beside you. She didn’t need to come over, yet here she was. A hero at heart.

"So, you were spying on me again?" You asked trying to ease out your own tension.

The comment made her falter in her movements, she straightened up looking away from you to hide her blush. She heard your chuckled, and it was enough for her to push you playfully until you almost lost your balance and fell completely on the ground.

"I can see this really was nothing bad, so I think I’ll be going." There was something unsettling on how truthful your teasing was, about the fact Wanda had been spying on you which was the only reason she got there as fast as she did.

Furrowing her brows, she was about to stand up ready to leave and forget about this when your hand, filled with blood and trembling, wrapped tenderly around hers.

Wanda flickered her eyes to your hand, then back to your own eyes. You offered a half apologetic smile, wincing as you tried to hold your discomfort.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.” It was hard to speak normally, but you tried letting go of the hand you had been holding, soon missing the firm contact. “I just…I make jokes when I’m in pain, or afraid, or sad, or…”

Wanda lifted a hand, her lips twitching up trying to hold back her smile.

“I get it, I get it.” She knelt down once more, her eyes seeking yours. “How can I be of help?”

You pressed your lips together weighing up your options, your foot was really hurting and you needed to see the damage before doing something foolish.

"How about helping me on my feet and then inside the house? I need to clean up the wound before doing something else."

Wanda nodded furrowing her brows, you took a deep breath pressing your hands on the ground to help you up.

“Wait, let me help you.” Wanda whispered leaning in, she guided her right arm around your shoulders while her left arm placed itself around your back and midsection. “Okay, let me get some leverage and I can help you up.”

“You really look too comfortable there, Principessa.” You chuckled lifting a hand in a sign of peace. “I’m kidding, I’m kidding, I just…”

Wanda rolled her eyes, though this time around she allowed the smile on her face, her eyes taking in your face for the very first time noticing just how close the two of you were. It was a moment of tense contemplation, she could see the strange nature of your eyes, changing colours under the light of the day while your face held traces of youth and age that made you look rather mischievous and mature.

Wanda took a deep breath when she realized you had been doing the same as her, your eyes had been studying her sharp features, and the strawberry of her hair. Then, your eyes found those of hers and you found yourself admiring the shades of green you found there. The young witch stiffened, unable to name the emotions coursing through her body, her heart hammering against her chest.

"Are you ready?" She cleared her throat creasing her brows at how nervous she sounded.

"Eh, yeah, on three?" You asked, looking away furrowing your brows at the strange moment you two just shared. Wanda nodded getting ready to push herself up. You sighed before counting. "One, two, three."

You stood up wincing, your left arm closing around Wanda's free arm while your right foot hovered above the ground. Drops of blood fell slowly on the ground, you bit your lower lip wishing you could use your powers to heal yourself, or perhaps call for help. Not with Wanda in the house. Not unless it was strictly necessary.

"Are you alright?” Wanda asked again, concern dripping in her tone.

“It hurts really bad, but I need to clean it up before stitching the wound.” You made a face glancing at the ground, there was a lot of blood in there. “I think we can move now.”

“Okay, we will do it slowly.” Wanda hesitated for a moment before speaking again, “shouldn’t we go to the doctor?”

You shook your head lifting your face to Wanda, your eyes taking in a strange glint.

“No, doctors, please.” You tried to smile at her, winking while you squeezed her arm tenderly. “I’ll be okay, I promise, I have everything we may need and I…I trust you.”

Wanda was not sure that was the right answer, even if her chest broke into an explosion of warmth and comfort at your words. The wound seemed to be bad enough to need stitches, and a real doctor. Without much hesitation the both of you made your way towards your house, the back door was open leading to a neatly organised kitchen.

It was the first time Wanda set foot in your house.

She could see the two houses were made with different layouts, but both of them were thought of as a family house. They were bigger on the inside, at least five rooms with three bathrooms, a living room and halls with enough space to mobilise heavy furniture.

The kitchen had been fixed to meet the needs of the inhabitants. Big enough to move around the stove and the kitchen counter, the fridge and the sink. The electrical appliances show your preference for coffee and simple things, while the decoration showed a glimpse of what you really liked, the traces of that personality that you held close to your heart and only a few people got to really experience.

The inside was decorated with the colours you favour the most.

There was a contrast of black and white, shades of green and blue spread out harmonising with your furniture and the decoration on the walls. Paintings Wanda barely recognized and objects she thought you could have stolen for a museum were giving the place a nice personal touch. As they turned to the left, entering further inside the house you reached the hall leading to the rooms, Wanda found the wall decorate from the floor to the ceiling with pictures.

"Gotta keep the memories." You said beside her when the young woman couldn’t help the gasp of surprised leaving her lips. She nodded distractedly, noticing the thin layer of sweat and the pain reflecting on your face.

"You have a lot of memories." She commented glancing at the pictures as they tried to advance further inside the house, the natural light coming from the windows right above their heads was enough to let Wanda get a glimpse of the pictures and the people in them.

It was you with the people in your life.

Or at least, that was what Wanda could guess.

There was one with you, Ajak, and Sprite with many others she did not recognize. Some others showed you, Clint, and Natasha, then Clint and his family. As the two of you walked down the hall, Wanda caught glimpses of pictures, several of them, with you and Natasha, she could even recognize Natasha's sister Yelena, in some of them.

Wand was about to continue when a single picture caught her eyes. She never felt the way your body tense, how your features hardened when you realized which picture she was seeing. It was a picture of you with a beautiful woman leaning against you, the background was that of a great river with sand reflecting the sun of the day. You looked happy, extremely happy. Your eyes were gleaming gold and your whole body was just lit up by the presence of the woman in your arms.

“A wall filled with memories, that is one of my favourites of a life I no longer have.” You said with a hint of bitterness in your tone, Wanda jerked around looking away from the picture embarrassed to be trapped by the sheer beauty of it.

You chuckled shaking your head, "we were in Egypt, it had been my dream since forever. It was supposed to be the best trip ever. In a way, it was.”

"It's a beautiful picture." Wanda commented awkwardly as you two finally reached the door of your room. “You look different."

You couldn’t help the smirk on your face, you tilted your head at Wanda who blinked at you with some confusion when all you did was wiggled your eyes brows at her.

"Go on, Principessa, you can say it."

Wanda furrowed her brows in confusion, “say what?"

“I look hot in that picture.” You held onto the doorknob and the close door when Wanda tried to step away from you.

"I think you can manage it from here." Wanda rolled her eyes once more, dipping her head to try and hide her blush while her heart seemed to skip a beat at your words. If she were to be honest, you looked beautiful in that picture.

But she was not about to be honest. Not now, not ever. At least not with that.

"I will go back to the house…” She started trying to make sure you would not fall while stepping back.

“You really are going to leave me here? What if I fall and break my head?" You exclaimed making a face, your hand on your chest. "Natasha would be really sad if that were to happen."

"I don't think you will fall…" Wanda flickered her hand, the red mist from her hands caught you on time before you actually fell on your face. She was by your side in no time, her face a mask of pure concern.

"So, you could have carried me all this time with your magic but opted to carry me in your arms?" You wiggled your eyebrows. "I'm seeing a pattern here, Principessa."

"God, are you always this irritable?"

"Only when it amuses me, yes." You replied cheekily, Wanda huffed rolling her eyes only to help you back in her arms and straightened you enough to make sure you wouldn’t fall on your face again.

You hissed clenching your jaw when your foot touch the floor.

“Are you alright?” Wanda looked down at your feet then back at you, you were pale and sweaty and your breathing had increased a little. Looking back, Wanda could see the trail of blood left on the floor.

You took a deep breath, “well, considering this could have been worse, I’m doing okay.”

"I still think we need a doctor," Wanda pursed her lips looking down at your foot. "We could call your friends, I'm sure Ajak…"

"No." It was a resolute no; you shook your head hardening your features. "No doctors, no…I'm fine, look I'm sorry if I'm being such a bother, you can drop me in the bathroom and you're free to go just, don't tell anyone."

It occurred to you perhaps Wanda really didn't want to be there taking care of you. Sure, she might have been watching you from her window, but it didn't mean she wanted to be involved in this mishap. Perhaps, you were really taking over her vacations, and not for the first time you wondered why you seemed so adamant to get her attention, to share things, and time with her.

Wanda scowled at your words, "It doesn't bother me, I'm just…"

Wanda trailed off, she wasn't really bothered into helping you out and being here with you. And that revelation in itself made her dizzy, the closeness of your body, the sudden vulnerability while seeing a different side of you was making her soft. It was making her feel… needed.

The young witch wrapped her arms around you in a comforting embrace.

"I'm worried, and I just thought perhaps professional help would be better." Wanda said softly, "but seeing as you're reluctant, then I'll help you out with what you may need."

You sighed, cocking your head to Wanda.

"If you are sure then, thank you Principessa." You hesitated for a moment before your hand grabbed the knob and opened the door.

You heard the gasp from Wanda and couldn’t help the smug smirk on your face.

When you had selected that place to build the houses, you made sure your house was built in an L form. The curve would be right at the edge of the cliff and that was where your room would be; instead of small windows you asked for large windows that would replace the solid walls, and your ceiling would be build in the same fashion. It was like a bubble, your own little space to admire the horizon in which the sea met the sky and the land.

But the best part of this layout was the nights.

The stars gleamed brightly right above your head, and it was as if you were sleeping right outside floating around while getting closer to the stars. You knew whenever someone entered your room, their first reaction was that of shocked they usually got the impression they were going outside only to find themselves surrounded by your bed, and the TV in the far away wall, and the two inside doors, one leading to the walk-in wardrobe and the one to the bathroom.

Wanda admired the room with huge eyes, your lips quirked upwards clearing your throat.

“This is the only room that looks like this,” you mentioned smugly, Wanda turned to you with an awestruck expression on her. “Like it? You should see it at night, everything looks beautiful in the middle of the darkness, the stars right above our heads and when the moon is out you can see it as a silver light accompanying you all night long.”

For Wanda it was not difficult to imagine you had done this thinking exactly that. To see the stars and the moon at nights. She broke into a tender smile watching around herself before lowering her gaze to the floor.

“It is beautiful, you certainly have the best view I have ever seen in a house.” She commented turning to you.

You softened your expression, noticing the wishful expression on the young woman's face. A thought sneaked inside your head, and you imagine at some point you would be able to show her the stars. You looked away snorting, wishful thinking.

"What?" Wanda was brought back to reality by your snort, you shook your head and offered a teasing smile to her.

"You can come later and see how it looks at night." You never meant for the comment to come out so sincere. If anything, you meant to say it as a game, playful and flirty just to make the woman beside you squirm and blush.

And while Wanda did seem flustered, she was like this because of the invitation more than anything else. Was she thinking the same as you?

"How about we stop staining your floor with blood and then…" Wanda let the words hang in the air, taking you tighter around her and making the way to the bathroom.

There was a big bathtub on the far corner, Wanda took you there placing you carefully on the spot near the edge of the tub. She straightened up looking around the place before settling her eyes on you, waiting for you to get ready to go inside. You furrowed your brows glancing at her then at the tub, then back at her, your lips breaking into a half smile.

"I'm not taking my clothes in front of you." You said shaking your head in disbelief, “really, Principessa, at least invite me dinner first.”

Wanda sighed trying to pretend she was irritated by the comment and not flustered by it, she tried to glare at you but the state you were in made it almost impossible for her to do so.

“Are you always this…this…” Wanda trailed off trying to find the exact word for your extremely flirtatious and irritating behaviour.

You shrugged looking away, "not really, I think it is only you."

Wanda stiffened daring to look back at you, you clenched your eyes shut at the stupid comment you just made.

"What I mean is, you're too easy to tease. So, I like to push your bottoms to see how far I could go." You shrugged trying to act nonchalant, a silence settled between the both of you until you cleared your throat.

"But thank you for the help, if you really want you can go back to the house, I think I can manage from here." You offered her a half smile, Wanda stood there for what seemed like an eternity. She made a turn before turning back to you.

"I better help you, if you were to die Natasha may think I did it."

You chuckled following Wanda with your eyes.

"She will probably think so, though I will watch my back for Yelena, she is the one that wouldn't forgive you." Wanda took her rings off and washed her hands, looking around the bathroom you cocked a brow at her.

"There is a first aid kit on that cabinet over there.” You pointed to a small cabinet at the opposite end of the tub.

Once Wanda had everything she needed she started filling out the tub with lukewarm water.

"Are you comfortable?” She asked tenderly testing the water before helping you turn around so you could place the feet on the inside of the tub.

You clenched your fists tight, knitting your eyebrows you just had to ask yourself what the fuck was going on. You really didn't plan such a stupid accident; you were just trying to show off knowing Wanda was looking. And now you couldn't tune down the flirty and inappropriate comments, really what was happening.

"Fuck, that… that burns." you hissed closing your eyes, the tattoos on your arm burning with energy they wanted to free.

"It was a nasty cut; how did you get it anyway?" Wanda turned to you only to see, for the very first time a blush on your cheeks.

"I was training, didn't see the rock. That's all."

"Are you blushing?" There was a hint of teasing in Wanda's voice.

"Please, I am merely warm for the water and the pain." You tried to play it cool but Wanda was not about to believe you, she had seen the flash of embarrassment in your eyes.

It was good to know you could get flustered as well, now Wanda only needed to find more reasons to put that blush there. It was only fair.

"Whatever makes you sleep at night," Wanda patted your leg nodding to the right foot. " Let me see."

You lifted your leg turning it so Wanda could see your foot. Her eyes went wide open, a flash of worry crossed those green eyes her fingers approaching the cut.

"I think you need to go to the doctor, this is really deep, and it won't stop bleeding."

You shook your head, "No doctors, stitches, I would do it myself but I can't reach out the wound."

"You're crazier than I thought if you think I'll do it."

"Then, who else??" You exclaimed, "Come on, Principessa, this can’t be the first wound you treated it! You're a superhero, I bet you have to take care of worse."

"With a doctor! We did it with a doctor not ourselves." Wanda replied, she was about to say something else when you made a face.

"Please, no doctors… come on."

Wanda pressed her lips together; you shot her a pleadingly glance hoping it would work. The redhead sighed shaking her head in disbelief.

"What do I have to do?" You smiled in triumph; you saw the water filled with blood before lifting your head.

“Well, I need painkillers, and tequila.” Wanda crunched up her nose, her left eyebrow lifted at you in disbelief.

“Tequila? Whatever for?”

“I’m not doing this without anaesthesia.” You replied opening your eyes, a hand on your chest. “Alcohol it’s the second-best option to drugs.”

Wanda snorted shaking her head, “I’ll bring the painkillers, not the tequila. Where are they?”

You pouted shrugging, “they’re on my bedside table, you can find them there.”

Wanda’s eyes went from your lips to your face, her lips curling slightly at your antics.

“I’ll be right back.” She was about to leave the bathroom when your voice reached her out again.

“The tequila can be found on the other bedside table!”

“I’m not going to encourage your use of alcohol in this situation, so you can forget it!” She replied chuckling when she heard your complain.

Ten minutes later, Wanda had a look of pure concentration in her face. Her eyes were gleaming intently, her hands completely firm while she did another stitch, your gasp the only indicator you were feeling every single one of those stitches.

"This is the last one." She whispered offering you a tiny smile.

You nodded holding your breath as she did another one.

"You know there is going to be a nasty scar on your foot and I won't be the one to blame." Wanda commented shaking her head. "I still think you need to go to the hospital. This could damage a nerve or something."

You wiggled your fingers, chuckling before groaning in pain.

"No nerve damage, I can feel everything." You made a face shrugging.

Wanda snorted though she didn't say anything else. She glanced at the tub then back at you.

"You want to take a bath?" She was already planning how to fix everything so you could take it without any issue, you merely smirked your eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Well, if you don't mind I prefer dinner and a movie before moving onto the bath, I already told you that."

You laughed at the face Wanda was making, it was a mixture of horror and embarrassment though her green eyes darkened a little. You wondered for a moment if her horror had anything to do with you or the idea of taking a bath with you. Or something else.

"You really are impossible, was this…" Wanda waved her hands at you looking away, "the reason you're single?"

You chuckled though Wanda noticed the sudden change in your tone, it was dark and cold and your eyes hardened looking away.

"No, the reason I'm single is that last time I found my girlfriend fucking other person moments before they almost killed me." You cringed at your sheer honesty; you didn't mean to be so blunt but her comment had made you shifted uncomfortably.

It hadn't been you the one to end the relationship, you hadn't been the one to manipulate and break the other's heart. But Wanda didn't need to know that, certainly not all the details.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to meddle." Wanda straightened up, she looked away feeling inadequate all of a sudden but before she could do something a hand placed itself on top of hers, softly requesting her attention.

"No, I'm sorry, I shouldn't snap in such a childish way, it's just…" you sighed scratching the back of your head. "That picture you saw on the hall; usually triggers memories I wish to forget. And… well, I shouldn’t tease you so much."

You winked at Wanda offering a tiny smile, the other woman nodded in understanding offering a smile of her own. Then you sat straight glancing at yourself, then at Wanda.

"I would take your offer about the bath if you're still up to it."

"Without the date?" Wanda answered before she could censor herself, you opened your eyes wide before laughing.

Wanda chuckled looking away embarrassed but happy she could cut the tension between the both of you.

"Tell you what, instead of a date I can invite you over for lunch." You shrugged glancing at your foot. "I was going to do so either way, this wound it's just a plus."

"How it’s you losing your foot a plus?" Wanda asked in disbelief.

You shrugged flashing a real smile, your dimples showing brightly on your face.

"You're here with me, right? I count that as a major plus."

______________________________________________________________

Wanda clenched her eyes shut taking a deep breath.

Really, she needed to get a hold of herself because this childish behaviour was getting out of hand. And it was absurd. It was almost impossible that someone like you would destabilize her in such a way without putting a real effort behind your actions, it was even worse knowing this was your way of being, like literally this seemed to be part of your personality.

God you two were not even friends. Just acquaintances.

Wanda made sure to be nearby, hearing the shower while admiring the inside of your room. Everything in there was neatly organized, placed in a way you could enjoy the night but your TV from time to time. The bed was looking quite comfortable, and the view you had from there was magical, Wanda could only imagine how watching the sunset or dawn would be.

The running water could be heard from inside the bathroom, Wanda made sure to be nearby if you ever needed any help and she could just go right in. Walking down the same hall they had used to reach the room, Wanda stopped right in the picture of before. For the second time she was captivated by the sight of your smile and your eyes. How happy you looked there, something warm stirred in her abdomen exploding in a fit of tingles spreading to her chest.

But then, she noticed the woman in your arms.

On the surface, she looked happy, but Wanda could see the lack of light in her dark eyes. The tension around her lips and the way she seemed to hog your space while placing herself in front of the camera. Who was she? You really seemed rather affected by the picture and the situation behind it.

When Wanda centred her attention to another picture she saw of you again. This time around you had on a half-smile on your face, bandages covering your chest and abdomen with something covering your arms. There were bags under your eyes, and you were thinner than in other pictures. Beside you, standing her full height was another woman. She was bald, and stern looking wearing traditional clothing Wanda had only seen in the Kamar-taj temple.

In that one, you looked tired. Miserable.

Then, there was another in which Ajak sat at the centre with a tall handsome man to her left and a beautiful woman with some Asian features to her right you had your arms around Sprite that was making a face while behind you was a blonde-haired woman with beautiful features, her eyes completely focused on you.

Wanda stepped back realizing that the wall itself was filled with many pictures of the same nature, every single one of them carefully placed in chronological order. Or at least, that was what Wanda thought. She curled her lips when she found one of you without the tattoos on your arms, you looked young glancing at something, you weren't aware of the person taking the picture. You were concentrated, standing in the middle of a green valley, your eyes much like the picture in Egypt seemed to be gleaming gold.

Her hand lifted to touch the glass, she hesitated when a flash of red returned her stare.

What was she doing there? Shouldn't she go back to her place? To continue with her study of the Darkhold and ways to get her heart's desire?

Wanda clenched her jaw, a hand went through her hair trembling slightly as a wave of cold energy went through her body.

Vision is waiting. The child is waiting. Your happiness, everything we have ever wanted… go, leave…

"Jesus fuck!" The sound of something heavy hitting the ground and your cussing broke the spell Wanda seemed to be, the young woman turned to the bathroom and in less than a second she was standing by the door.

"Are you alright? Tell me you didn't break your head open; I really don't want to face Natasha's wrath." Wanda said half amused half concern when there was no answer at the other side, she waited for a moment worrying her lower lip debating with herself how wise it would be to go in there.

She didn't have to wait long, you opened the door wide wincing though smiling shakily at her, your right foot right above the ground and your hand holding tight on the threshold, you had a single small towel covering your body and Wanda felt really hot all of a sudden. Her mouth dry and her eyes almost impossible to keep above your chin.

"Mmm while I'm liking this new form of ogling, would you mind helping me to my bed?"

Wanda clenched her eyes shut mortified, she looked away trying to hold back her blush while scolding herself for such stupid show of… of what? She didn't even want to put a name on it.

"Su-sure. " Wanda cleared her throat offering her arm for you to hold onto.

You held back your smile, if Wanda had been looking at you she could have seen the mischief in your eyes

"So, you wouldn't mind helping me like you did earlier on? You know pressed against me your arms around me…"

"I am this close to hex you," Wanda showed her fingers almost touching. "Take the arm or limp to your bed alone."

You laughed shaking your head while taking the offering arm.

"Such a bad sense of humour, Principessa." You commented making a sound with your tongue. "Really, it was just a joke."

Wanda clenched her jaw, still refusing to turn her eyes to you. You squeezed her arm tenderly, offering a single smile.

"Look, give me ten and I will be out and then we can prepare something light for breakfast and then go directly to cook lunch, how does it sound?"

Wanda was about to say yes, she really was about to answer but something happened. It was a dark thought, you trying to repay the favour and the help…

Acquaintances.

You're not friends, yet here you are wasting your time when you could be training and working on your task.

You didn't miss the dark shadow that went through her eyes, not the sudden drop in the temperature. Out of the corner of your eyes you could see the window and the flash of red in there.

A book is missing.

Wanda helped you sit down on the bed, her face hardened slightly.

"I really think I should just go, I… I have things to do."

You pressed your lips together, looking away from the other woman. Wanda could feel the tension, the dip on your head and the disappointment in your eyes. She looked away from you, her heart clenching strangely, you squeezed her forearm offering a gentle smile.

"You're right, I mean you came here to rest and here I am trying to overwhelm you with my presence." You sounded cool as you said this, you let go of her arm glancing around your room. "Go on, I promise you I'll be okay. And if something happens I'll call you."

"Right, I leave you to… to change and all. I see you around then."

You hated the wave of disappointment you felt when she turned around and left without even glancing back. You had to remind yourself she was nothing more than a contract, a guest. You two were not even friends and she had made it quite clear your presence and constant flirting was not welcome. You winced making a mental note to tone it down a little so she wouldn't feel harassed or uncomfortable, the last thing you wanted was for her to think you were doing something inappropriate. That you just wanted to… get in her pants or something

Far from it, what you really wanted from her was… You clenched your jaw; a bitter smile drew on your lips.

You wanted to see her smile.

"Ugh, I'm really an idiot." You mumbled falling on your back watching the blue sky above your head.

______________________________________________________________

Wanda closed the door behind her letting out the breath she had been holding ever since she left your home. She closed her eyes trying to regulate her heartbeat, her mind flashing pieces of you. Your smile, your eyes, your neck, those arms, and legs filled out with tone muscles yet so delicate complementing your contexture.

God, since when did she like women??

Wanda let the question dance inside her head, she tried to get an answer when the sound of her mobile broke her concentration. She furrowed her brows; it was the first time since she was in that place that her phone rang. Approaching the mobile, she saw Natasha's name there, with some hesitation she picked up.

"I'm fine." It was her first reaction; she heard the snort at the other end of the line.

"Well, by the lack of messages and phone calls one would think you weren't."

Wanda winced; she had seen the messages. Thousands of them, from her, from Tony, from Monica, from Clint, from Sam, she even thought she saw one from Bucky, even though the last time she saw him he was still using a Nokia 3310.

"I was… busy." Wanda rolled her eyes and she just knew Natasha was doing the same.

"How have you been? Really, without the crap." Natasha asked, her tone softening slightly.

Wanda cocked her head watching around the house. Everything was a mess, she had been going through the motions, when she wasn’t on bed watching at the ceiling or meditating with the Darkhold she was wandering around the house starting something only to leave it there.

"I'm hanging in there."

"Y/N told me you went to the town; how did you like it?" It was a subtle way for Natasha to tell Wanda she was being watched, or at least that if she wasn't ready to share some details you were.

Of course, acquaintances.

Wanda felt her heart crunched up painfully at the thought. You owed nothing to Wanda, and by the number of pictures you had with Natasha, Wanda guessed you did owe a lot to the older woman.

Perhaps, they were lovers.

A voice strangely familiar whispered at the back of her mind, a shadow crossed Wanda's face while she tried to answer without giving anything away

"It was okay, I guess. The town was beautiful, and the food was delicious." Wanda trailed off then after a moment of hesitation. "It was different, I liked it."

"Hn, I knew you would like it," There was a sound of voices in the background then curses and some laughter with a bark.

"Look I have my hands full at the moment, but I think I will visit you soon."

"You don't have to, Natasha." Wanda frowned when Natasha said something in Russia before returning to the conversation.

"I know. I want to. I miss you, so you better get ready to receive me because I'll be there." More noise and Natasha sighed. "Look I gotta go, but don't be a stranger. I really miss our conversations, Wanda. just.. Know that I'm here okay."

"I know."

The line went dead and Wanda put the mobile back in the kitchen counter. She glanced at it for a moment, taking a deep breath she decided she needed a distraction, something that would take her mind off of things. Her first instinct was to reach for the Darkhold, her fingers flickered in anticipation, but her body and her mind were not up to it.

She hugged herself, turning her face to the flat TV resting on the living room wall. She hesitated for a moment before making her way to the TV, turning it on she found several streaming services. Sitting down on the sofa she looked for old reruns of sitcoms while trying to keep out of her mind the burning questions about her neighbour and her real relationship with Natasha, and why it bothered Wanda so much.

______________________________________________________________

You didn’t waste any time in getting ready and making a quick scan on your wound.

You hissed noticing the wound had been really deep, and even if you were to use your powers you would need to give explanations you were not ready to give just yet. Wrapping the bandages around your foot, you made sure everything was in place before limping your way to the kitchen.

The sound of the video call filled the kitchen, your laptop laid on the counter with the screen facing your way. You took a sip from the tea you had prepared, the pain on your foot receding slowly. The sound of the ring from the video call resounded in the kitchen, your lips twitched upwards at your counting.

One, two, three…

“This better not be the end of the world, or I swear to all that it is sacred I’m changing my phone number.”

You smiled cocking your head to the woman at the other side of the screen, “nice to see you too, Sersi.”

The young woman chuckled taking a good glance at what was behind you, she furrowed her brows pursing her lips in a thoughtful manner.

“I thought you have company; Sprite was really convinced you have finally found the love of your life to settle down your pervert ways.”

“She is just a guest! You guys really need to focus the gossip on another, more interesting victim that isn’t me.” You rolled your eyes when Sersi chuckled again, she softened her stare and this time around she was looking like the overly worried big sister she had always been.

“I love that you’re calling, Y/N, but you rarely do unless there is something important you want to discuss.”

You nodded offering an apologetic stare to the other woman, you sat down wincing at your feet. You noticed the stare Sersi sent your way, you chuckled leaning in.

“I hurt myself while I was trying to show off.”

“Something I can imagine you doing,” Sersi chuckled then she too leaned in. “You were showing off to the mystery woman you were telling me was just a guest?”

You shrugged, Sersi sighed leaning back while lifting an eyebrow.

“Well, don't let me stop you, please tell me what happened.”

You fixed your position on the stool, your eyes drifting to your foot then back to the other woman on the screen. After you finished getting dressed you couldn’t stop thinking about Wanda, how tired she looked, the bags under her eyes, the lost glance of her green eyes. Everything about her was just another result of whatever she had going on back at the house. You could feel the magic, dark magic at the works in there.

A book is missing.

“How many magical books we know that can be dangerous for humans or humans with magical abilities?” You asked with a hint of interested in your voice.

Sersi lifted her eyebrows making a quick list of the books she knew.

“Well, there are a couple I can think of, but…you have to be more specific.”

"Okay, I need to tell you something, but it must be between us, no one Sersi, and I mean no one can know about this."

The other woman frowned at this, she looked at you discovering just how serious you were about the whole situation.

"I promised you."

That was good enough for you, you took a sip from your tea just before starting the narration. You told her what you knew about Westview, what Natasha had said about the little witch and what you had seen so far. How consumed she was, the flashes of darkness in her, but also the moments of clarity she had.

In all this time Sersi was analysing not only your words but also your reactions. She held back a smile, you seemed to have a soft spot for your new guest. But you were trying to hide it behind a friendly concern.

"Well, there are some magical books I can think of you have the Blu'dakorr though… usually the caster of the spell is destined to die. There is also the book of cagliostto but I think this one is guarded in Kamar-taj." Sersi put a hand on her chin. "There is another one, corrupts the reader, the book of sins…"

"The Darkhold?” You didn't think about that, but… there was another witch in that town and the book had been lost for a long time at the hands of humanity.

"There was another thing, I know it sounds familiar but I can't pinpoint where I hear it. "You continued. "The witch she encountered in Westview called her called the Scarlet Witch."

The moment you saw Sersi's reaction you knew you were missing something. She was looking partially shocked and partially wary.

"She has the Darkhold, Y/N."

"How can you be so sure?"

"You don't remember the story?" This time there was a hint of disbelief in her voice, you lowered your eyes trying to catch the memory inside your mind. But it was elusive.

"Not really…"

Sersi softened her features, her lips curled slightly while she tried to explain to you much like she would do to her class

"The Darkhold it's a magical book that eventually corrupts its user," Sersi frowned, thinking back to the time in which they were hunting down these artifacts to protect humanity. "There is a prophecy about a magical being so powerful she could rewrite reality, create life out of nothing, she was called the Scarlet Witch. And the Darkhold has a full chapter dedicated to her. Her power comes from chaos magic, destined to destroy or govern reality."

You wished you could remember some of these details, this sounded like something you would have known of or at least studied. Your face fell, how many memories did you lose with the years, how many were stolen in Egypt?

"Hey, it's okay, when we studied these things you were not interested in chaos but creation."

You tried to offer a smile but it didn't come out normal, it was more like a grimace.

"So, the Darkhold had a chapter on her?"

"Well, the book was meant to offer her tools to control the world, the followers were supposed to be the only ones to guide her to her destiny."

"Well, she did create a whole reality just for her and the love of her life."

Those worlds felt wrong on your tongue, it was at that moment you remembered why she had come to Italy. It wasn't only to hide away from the government and her mistakes, she had come to grief.

She was looking for a friend, not a lover. She had lost the love of her life and probably was not ready for a new one. If she would ever be ready for that.

"Y/N." Sersi called your name and you could see she was really worried. "Look I don't know her, I have only seen the news and what little they talk about the Avengers but be careful."

You nodded curtly looking away.

"She is not that bad, you know? Just lost, and in pain. She has lost so much." You mumbled as an explanation, Sersi sighed knowing you had already decided even if you were pretty slow to catch up to your heart.

"I know, I just want you to be careful, if she is what they claimed her to be and she has the Darkhold it is probably that she is being corrupted at the moment. You know how… you know how that works, magical or not you guys are still human."

"Thank you Sersi, can I ask you…"

"I will look into it, don't worry." Sersi hesitated for a moment, then she gave in. "But think about what I said, perhaps it's not too late to break the influence of the book but you have to act quick, and with care. Y/N I don't want you to get hurt."

Not again.

The last part was left unsaid, but you knew that was what she meant. You nodded curtly, your eyes flickering around the room then settling on Sersi.

"Thank you, Sersi. I promise you I'll be careful, don't worry."

The communication ended and you were left there for a moment with concern filling your mind.

You watched at the clock on the wall, there was still an hour left for midday. With resolution taking place in your heart, you decided there was something you could actually do to help Wanda. With a winced you stood up getting ready to prepare lunch.

______________________________________________________________

Wanda sat in the living room; she had stopped paying attention to the TV after the first 30 minutes.

Nights were usually the worst, but that particular day Wanda was fighting a losing battle during the day. She let her hands brushed her red locks back while she held back her need to reach out for the magic; it had been foolish, really what triggered this moment of desperation. She had been surfing the menu of the streaming service when she found one of the old re-runs of A Dream of Jeannie.

Wanda put her legs closer to her chest, she wished things were easier than they appeared to be. She leaned back against the sofa and try to busy her mind with other things; she tried to think of the suffering she caused in Westview, she tried to think of Lagos and the moments in which she had failed for using her magic inappropriately.

The young witch closed her eyes, as soon as she did she could feel it. She was in the room with her, she always was reminding her on what she needed to do, on what the real goal was.

Vision.

Her family.

Her happiness.

Wanda took a deep breath, a ghostly hand placed itself on her shoulder and whatever was about to happen, whatever she was going to tell herself was left unsaid under the memory of golden eyes. There was hesitation on her part, she could sense the magic wavering under the weight of such a powerful memory.

Golden eyes.

Dimple smile.

A really flirty and carefree personality.

"I can see you don't want to be alone, but you don't know how to approach others without getting hurt in the process."

Those words were still twirling inside her mind, she was still trying to forget them and forget the piercing pain they provoked in her. Wanda tensed, lifting her face only to see herself in battle gear, red and wild, green eyes mixing up with the colour of her magic; Wanda knew this was her, and probably an illusion or a creation of her mind.

The Scarlet Witch.

She smiled, and it sent shivers down Wanda’s back. It was as if she was seeing the version of herself that was consumed by the pain and loneliness you spoke of. But there was really nothing in the world to fill up the void left behind by her family and Vision, was it?

Wanda clenched her eyes closed and when she opened them she was alone.

With a trembling hand she lifted her phone to her face, there were several unread messages here and there. She pressed her lips together, opening her contacts and finding your name in there. Her finger hovered just above you contact and after more than a minute she sighed and put the phone away.

What was happening to her?

After a moment of hesitation, Wanda lifted her phone again. This time around she went to the messages, and with great effort she decided it was time to answer all of them. The thought of you poking at the back of her mind.

It wasn't until much later once she had answered all her pending messages and started a friendly conversation with Monica that the phone of the house rang. Wanda furrowed her brows in confusion, she moved to the phone glancing at it until she picked up.

"Hello?"

"Well, it seems as if I may need your help after all." Your voice came in raspy; Wanda felt her heart skip a beat.

"What did you do?" It was her first question; she held the phone tight against her ear already worrying over you.

"Mmm well, it is hard to explain, I'm sorry to bother you but…could you come over?"

Wanda hesitated for a moment before taking a deep breath.

"Yes, of course, let me put on shoes and I'll be right there."

"Cool, you can use the backyard door."

While she was making her way to your house, Wanda couldn't help the hundredth horrific scenarios running in her mind. She imagined you had fallen on your face, or perhaps the foot was bleeding again. The young witch could not decide yet what made her more nervous and anxious, the fact you could be hurt really bad or the fact she was going to see you again.

However, once she reached your house she never imagined shou would find what she found.

There was a sweet smell of food filling the air, Wanda settled her green eyes on you first. You were sitting on a stool near the kitchen counter with a tiny smile on your face, her eyes drifted around the room until they fell on the living room. The TV was on, and on the centre table you had placed two different plates filled with food, glasses of wine and two glasses of water.

The face of pure concern she had come with soon disappeared to one of perplexity. She returned her stare to you, you tried to stand up clearing your throat while speaking.

“It occurred to me today that, we’re not friends.” You said simply, ignoring the flash of hurt crossing Wanda’s eyes. “I mean, you came here looking for a place to rest, to grief and recover…and I thought of giving you that space. It is only right, not because you’re paying for this place, but because I know the need to have a space for yourself while you try to get way from all the overwhelming emotions of your life.”

Wanda stood frozen in place, she couldn’t tear her eyes away from you even though the smell of food was making her stomach grumble and her mind think on the last time she had a decent meal. You winced when you tried to put some weight on your right foot, then your hand waved around showing the living room.

“But I also realised that in the last couple of days, well we have been interacting more and more and I just…” Here you trailed off offering a sheepish smile at her, your hand went to the back of your head scratching your neck nervously. “I decided that I would like to get to know you better, be your friend, not because of what you are or where you come from, but because of you, Wanda.”

Her name sounded strange yet rather comforting coming from your lips, it was the very first time she heard you called her by her name. You straightened up offering once more one of your honest smiles, your whole face breaking into a bright expression.

“So would you be my friend?” Wanda shook her head at the question, while your words had struck sensitive part of Wanda she was not really understanding why you decided to go to such lengths to offer your friendship.

Before Wanda could say anything at all, you waved your hands redirecting her attention to the living room.

“Before you answer, in case you have a negative answer in there, let me tell you that I cooked a marvellous lunch that I would like to share with you.” You continued trying to hide your nerves behind your antics. “And I even find out you like romcoms, so I decide today I could make an exception of watching good movies to see one of those romcoms with you while we eat lunch and …you know? We do friendly things.”

You went silent and soon Wanda was standing there without knowing what to say.

She was left speechless, and while a part of her felt happy at your proposal there was another part of her that seemed rather bother by it. Friends. Only friends. Wanda felt something inside shatter, her heart was beating fast and a sensation of tingles and butterflies fluttering around her chest and abdomen was threatening to overwhelm her. She kept her eyes on you, and it took her a couple of minutes before her face relaxed, her cheeks burnt under your stare.

"I… I don’t know what to say.” Wanda spoke softly, she tilted her head walking towards you. “I just…I guess, it’s a good start.”

You beamed at her nodding towards the living room, “good then, well…I made some sokovian dishes I hope I got right and that you enjoy. I thought perhaps, you would appreciate to actually eat something familiar.”

Before you could give more than two jumps she was right there for you. Wanda was looking everywhere but at you, her body trembling as she held you tenderly.

"Let me help you," She all but whispered, then as an afterthought she furrowed her brows at you. "What's wrong with romcoms?"

You snorted, sitting on the sofa with Wanda sitting right beside you.

"The question, Principessa, is what is good about them? They are unrealistic!"

Wanda glanced around her, with her eyes going wide at the sight. Everything was familiar to her, but what really made her melt for you was the sight of the potato cake.

"I'm not much of a cook, to be honest, but I found this on a YouTube video, though you may appreciate a typical sokovian lunch."

She lifted her head and, for the very first time, got a real glance at you. Not the person she met on that very first day she arrived, not the woman she had been ogling every morning, not the one that seemed so confident and flirty or the serious and almost uncaring one.

She saw you.

And you allowed it.

Wanda didn't cry, she just felt her heart swell with emotion as she was reminded of home. Her mother and her father and Pietro, and it was a good memory. It was the memory of their love, the good times they spent together just like this, in the living room laughing and talking while watching TV.

Wanda missed them so much but she realized right there and then, they would never be gone. Because she remembered, she remembered potato cake was Pietro's favourite, and her dad used to drink red wine while serving just a pinch to her and Pietro. That her mother used to prepare the chicken with paprika and teach her how to do it.

Wanda dared to look into your mind, just enough to read the surface to try and see the real reason behind your actions. But the only thing she found was you being nervous about the food, about the movie. Nervous about her liking this idea of being friends. Then pain, because your foot was still hurting, and then you were wondering if you should combine the wine with the painkillers.

You shifted furrowing your brows a little, you leaned in waving your hand in front of Wanda's eyes.

"You there, Principessa? Did I break you?"

Wanda offered a real smile, it was a tug at her lips, her eyes hinning lightly.

"Thank you, Y/N."

She was being sincere; she was really thankful for your help. Thankful for you trying to get closer with the most unexpected gestures. You leaned back, smiling back.

"It is my pleasure, Wanda. I meant it when I said I wanna be friends with you," You winked at her leaning in to grab the TV control. "What should we watch the?"

"How about you show me what you like," Wanda leaned in, grabbing her plate filled with warm food.

You made a face shooting her a calculating stare.

"I'm not sure you're ready for that." You served the wine and turned into one of the servers. "I like horror movies, so…"

"Please, try me."

You smirked at her, unable to hold your tongue at the obvious opening Wanda had offered.

"I will if you let me, Principessa." Wanda almost choked on her food, you chuckled, turning it into one of your favourite movies. "I warn you though, I'm not into cuddling or snuggling if you get too scared. Though if you ask politely I may consider it."

You never saw the pillow coming until it hit you in the face, Wanda hid her smile turning to the movie while you sat there dumbfounded, your plate filled with food barely hanging there.

"I will have my revenge, Principessa, you just wait." The threat hung in the air while you sat comfortably, closer than was probably necessary to Wanda.

After that, the both of you did nothing more than enjoy the food and the movies. Light conversation grew slowly, comments about the movies and the acting filled the silence.

Neither of you noticed the night coming in, or the moment you two fell asleep.

It was almost dawn when you woke up startled, your head turning around to see the darkened room and the quiet night. Wanda was snuggled onto the sofa, hugging the pillow she had thrown to you early on.

You watched her for a couple of minutes before shaking your head. Your heart thumping against your chest at the sight.

You really were in such much trouble.

#wanda au

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